Walking the dogs keeps you somewhat fit and can help you make new friends, at least where we live in Zurich. It can also bring more unusual benefits.

Earlier this morning I was walking our three pugs when I did my usual quick scan of the books at our local book swap facility. People bring their unwanted books and other people pick them off the shelves for free. I happened to spot an Ian Gillan biography (Child In Time, 1993 first UK edition) in decent condition. I thought long and hard about taking it. It's not so easy to control three dogs with one hand, especially if you have to get busy with the poop bags or the dogs want to have a quick cool off in a stream. I should take a carrier bag every time I plan to go past the shelves but never do.

Anyway, I took the book and a minute or two later had a quick peek inside. You can guess the rest...

I'm 99.9% confident that this bold dedicated autograph is genuine but any opinions would be welcome - also as to a likely date.